What structure in conifers houses the sporangia that produce megaspores and microspores?Multiple choice question.seedsconesflowersneedles

Step 1: Break Down the Problem

To answer the question, we need to identify which structure in conifers is responsible for housing the sporangia that produce megaspores and microspores. The options provided are seeds, cones, flowers, and needles.

Step 2: Relevant Concepts

In conifers (which are gymnosperms), reproduction occurs via structures that are distinct from those in flowering plants (angiosperms). Specifically:

• Sporangia: Structures where spores are produced.
• Megaspores: Spores that develop into female gametophytes.
• Microspores: Spores that develop into male gametophytes.

Cones are the reproductive structures in conifers where these sporangia are contained.

Step 3: Analysis and Detail

• Seeds: These are the products of fertilization, not structures that house sporangia.
• Cones: Male cones produce microspores (via microsporangia), and female cones produce megaspores (via megasporangia).
• Flowers: These are characteristic of angiosperms, not conifers.
• Needles: These are leaf-like structures not involved in spore production.

Step 4: Verify and Summarize

From the analysis, the structure responsible for housing sporangia that produce megaspores and microspores in conifers is the cone.

Final Answer

Cones